MX2010010854A

MX2010010854A - Manufacturing method for absorbent products and manufacturing device for absorbent products.

Info

Publication number: MX2010010854A
Application number: MX2010010854A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Satoru Sakaguchi; Noritomo Kameda; Tomomi Oku
Original assignee: Unicharm Corp
Priority date: 2008-03-31
Filing date: 2009-03-31
Publication date: 2010-11-09
Also published as: UA100260C2; BRPI0906301A8; MA33621B1; WO2009123213A1; ZA201007801B; BRPI0906301A2; EA201001572A1; CO6321209A2

Abstract

Provided is a manufacturing method for absorbent products that has a process for placing fastening members (30a, 30b), which are fastenable to prescribed areas, on both sides of a center line (C) that is parallel to the MD-direction of a flap line on connected flaps (120) on the flap line, a process for folding over both edges of connected flaps (120) on the flap line toward the center line (C) that is parallel to the MD-direction, a process for forming flaps (20) by cutting the connected flaps (120) along the CD-direction on the flap line, and a process for placing flaps (20) at a prescribed interval on connected absorbent products (110) on a main body line so that the center line (C) is parallel to the MD-direction.

Description

METHOD FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF ABSORBENT ITEMS AND DEVICE FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF ABSORBENT ITEMS TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles and to a device for the manufacture of absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-permeable backsheet, and an absorbent main body interposed between the top sheet and the back sheet.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In general, in diapers of the open type, there is a need to provide a side flap (a hanging part) that hangs from an absorbent main body to the outside to facilitate placement in a user's body.

Although a method for providing the side flap is known, by hanging a side panel element to the exterior of the absorbent main body and then using a remaining portion when trimming as a side flap, this method involves the problem that many waste materials are produced due to when trimming.

As a measure to solve this problem, a method for making diapers is known, described in Patent Document 1. The method for making diapers has the following steps. (1) The step of manufacturing a diaper main body in the form of a ribbon. (2) The step of manufacturing a substantially trapezoidal side flap sheet by means of a tape-shaped sheet. (3) The step of joining the side flap sheet with bilateral circumferential ends of the main body of the diaper in ribbon form. (4) The step of cutting the main body of the diaper in the form of a ribbon together with the side flap sheet in predetermined dimensions.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 4- 261655 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION However, in the steps of manufacturing the diaper of the open type described above, the side flap must be attached at the predetermined portion on bilateral end sides of the main body of the diaper in the form of a ribbon, while positioning the side flap accurately .

Moreover, in the manufacturing steps of the open-type diaper described above, since the side flaps of two sides are respectively arranged in the main body of the diaper in the shape of In the case of tape, the problem may arise that the joining process becomes complicated, when the positions of the lateral flaps in the MD direction (moving direction) of the main body line are to be transversally coincident with each other.

The present invention has been made in view of the problem described above, and is directed to provide a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles and a device for manufacturing absorbent articles, which are able to prevent the occurrence of a failure caused by the fact that the positions of the lateral wings are not coincident with each other in the MD direction of the main body line, without the need to use a forward control.

A feature of the present invention is directed to a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a liquid-permeable topsheet, a liquid-impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent main body that is interposed between the topsheet and the back sheet. The method comprises: a step of arranging a hooking element, in a continuous body of an elongate fin that is to be continuously moved in a fin line, arranging the hooking elements that are to be hooked together in a predetermined region , on both sides of the centerline taken along a direction of transfer of the fin line; a fin forming step, on the fin line, which forms a fin by cutting the continuous body of the fin line along a direction crossing the fin line transfer direction; and a fin disposing step, in a continuous body of an elongate absorbent article that is to be continuously moved in a main body line, arranging the fin in a predetermined interval so as to take a center line along a length. direction of transfer of the main body line, where on the fin line, bilateral end faces of the continuous fin body are folded onto one side of the center line taken along the direction of travel of the wing. fin line.

As described above, with a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the present invention, a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles can be provided, which is capable of preventing the occurrence of a failure caused by the fact that the positions of the lateral fins are not coincident with each other in the MD direction of the main body line, without the need to employ a forward control.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a view for explaining a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles, according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a plan view of an absorbent article according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a subsequent plan view for unfolding the absorbent article according to the 1-1 mode of the present invention.

Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B are views for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles, according to the example modification 1 of mode 1-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B are cross-sectional views of a flap in a state in which the absorbent article is not folded according to the example modification 1 of mode 1-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a plan view subsequent to the unfolding of the absorbent article according to the example modification 1 of mode 1-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a plan view subsequent to the unfolding of the absorbent article according to the example modification 1 of mode 1-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles, according to the example modification 2 of mode 1-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a mechanism for arranging the hooking element 210 according to the mode 1-2 of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a folding mechanism on itself of the end side 220 according to the embodiment 1-2 of the present invention.

Fig. 1 1 is a perspective view showing a cutting arrangement mechanism 230 according to the mode 1-2 of the present invention.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a complete structure of an absorbent article according to the mode 2-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 13 is a plan view of the absorbent article according to the mode 2-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 14 is an extended plan view of an absorbent article according to the mode 2-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 15 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to mode 2-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 16 is a plan view of an absorbent article according to mode 2-2 of the present invention.

Fig. 17 is an extended plan view of the absorbent article according to the embodiment 2-2 of the present invention.

Fig. 18 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to mode 2-2 of the present invention.

Fig. 19 is a perspective view showing a mechanism for arranging the hooking element 1210 according to the embodiment 2-3 of the present invention.

Fig. 20 is a perspective view showing a bending mechanism on itself of the end side 1220 according to the embodiment 2-3 of the present invention.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view showing a cutting arrangement mechanism 1230 according to the embodiment 2-3 of the present invention.

Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing a cutting arrangement mechanism 1250 according to the example modification of mode 2-3 of the present invention.

Fig. 23 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 24A and Fig. 24B are views for explaining a fin joining step in the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 25 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 1 of mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 26 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 2 of mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 27 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 3 of mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 28 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 4 of mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 29 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 5 of mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 30 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles, according to the example modification 6 of mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 31 is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 7 of mode 3-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 32 is a perspective view showing a hook element arrangement mechanism 2310 according to the mode 3-2 of the present invention.

Fig. 33 is a perspective view showing a mechanism for forming the self-bending part 2320 according to the mode 3-2 of the present invention.

Fig. 34 is a perspective view showing a linking mechanism 2330 according to the mode 3-2 of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Next, the first, second and third embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

First Modality Mode 1-1 A method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3.

The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the 1-1 mode of the present invention is capable of manufacturing absorbent articles (see Fig. 2 and Fig. 3), respective absorbent articles provided with a topsheet permeable to Liquids 12b, one liquid-impermeable backsheet 12a, and an absorbent main body 10 which is interposed between the topsheet 12b and the backsheet 12a.

Fig. 2 is a view showing a state in which the latching elements 30a, 30b are retained in a latched manner and then temporarily retained in a main body of a fin 20 in a diaper of the open type that is manufactured by the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the modality.

Fig. 3 is a view showing a state in which the latching elements 30a, 30b are disengaged from the main body of the fin 20 and then the fin 20 is opened in the diaper of the open type which is manufactured by the method for The manufacture of absorbent articles according to the modality.

Next, the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1.

First, the steps to be performed on a fin line in which a fin 20 provided in an absorbent article is moved will be described.

In step S1 1, in a continuous body 120 of an elongated fin that moves continuously in the fin line, the latching elements 30a, 30b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged on both sides of a central line C will take along an MD direction of the fin line.

Specifically, these latching elements 30a, 30b are joined at bilateral end faces 40a, 40b of the continuous fin body 120 in a predetermined length interval.

In a case where hook elements (male elements) such as the latching elements 30a, 30b are arranged, it is assumed that elements are provided to which the hooks (female elements) are directed as the elements to which the coupling is directed in a predetermined region of a front waistline element.

In the embodiment, the front waist line element is comprised of non-woven fabric; and therefore, even if an element to which the hook is directed is not provided separately, a predetermined region per se of the front waist line element serves as an element to which the hook is directed.

In step S12, at the fin line, the bilateral end faces 40a, 40b of the continuous fin body 120 are bent over toward the side of the center line C. Specifically, as shown in the sectional view taken at along the line B-B ', on the fin line, the bilateral end sides 40a, 40b of the continuous fin body 120 are folded on themselves upwardly of the continuous fin body 120.

In addition, to prevent a circumstance in which the continuous flap body 120 is turned over at the time of transfer, the latching elements 30a, 30b are temporarily retained when latched in the continuous flap body 120. In addition, this grabbing Temporary can be made by applying an enhancement procedure or the like to fold over portions 50a, 50b formed by allowing the bilateral end sides 40a, 40b of the fin 20 to be bent over themselves and then allow the fin 20 to overlap.

In step S13, in the fin line, the fin 20 is formed by cutting the continuous fin body 120 in a predetermined length interval along an address (CD direction) that intersects in the MD direction of the horizontal line. fin.

Second, the steps to be performed on a main body line on which a continuous body 110 of an absorbent article is moved will be described.

In step S21, a pulp sheet is milled by means of a grinding mechanism to thereby generate a ground pulp, and when the ground pulp passes through a pulp supply duct, it is mixed with a highly absorbent polymer. (SAP- for its acronym in English).

Subsequently, a mixture of the ground pulp supplied from the pulp supply duct and the highly absorbent polymer is laminated in a predetermined profile by means of a rolling drum, thus molding the absorbent cores 1.

In step S22, in a sheet-like fabric 2a to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the main body line, the absorbent cores 1 are placed at length intervals in the MD direction of the main body line MD.

Subsequently, a sheet-like fabric 2b to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the main body line is superimposed on the fabric 2a on which a plurality of absorbent cores 1 is placed in the MD direction of the main body line.

In step S23, a top sheet (liquid permeable) 12b is to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the main body line after being superimposed on the sheet-like tissue 2a, and then, a back sheet is attached (liquid impervious) 12a to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the main body line after being superimposed under the sheet-like tissue 2a.

In step S24, barrier sleeves 3 formed by another element are attached to a respective side of the bilateral end faces of an absorbent main body 10, along the MD direction of the main line.

In step S25, on the continuous body 110 of the elongated absorbent articles to be continuously moved over the main body line, the flap 20 formed in step S13 is disposed at a predetermined length interval such that the center line C is take along the MD direction of the main body line.

Specifically, the fin 20 formed in step S13 is attached to the fin line by means of a thermoplastic resin in the continuous body 10 of the absorbent article.

Here, the thermoplastic resin can be applied over the entire back side of the fin 20 or the thermoplastic resin can be applied to only a part of the back side of the fin 20.

In step S25, the flap 20 can be attached to the continuous body 110 of the absorbent article by means of a thermo-ultrasonic compression or enhancement roller and the like.

In step S26, in the main body line, the continuous body 10 of the absorbent article is cut to a predetermined length interval along the line CD of the main body line.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention described above, the occurrence of a failure caused by the fact that the positions of the lateral fins in the MD direction of the line can be prevented. of main body are not transversally coincident with each other without the need for advanced control.

Specifically, with the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention, the fin 20 having its integrated shape for configuring right and left side wings are arranged in the continuous body 10 of the absorbent article. , thus allowing the positions of the lateral fins in the MD direction of the main body line to be transversally coincident with each other.

Furthermore, with the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention, a different portion of the bilateral end faces 40a, 40b of the fin 20 is used as a region of attachment to the continuous body 100 of the absorbent article. This makes it possible to maintain a bond strength between the fin 20 and the continuous body 10 of the absorbent article and to eliminate a fault produced by a thermoplastic resin that extends outwards in a case where the joint region is small.

Further, with the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the 1-1 mode of the present invention, the self-bending portions 50a, 50b formed by ensuring that the bilateral end sides of the fin 20 are folded over themselves and are retained in a latched manner on the continuous body 10 of the absorbent article, after the fin 20 is superimposed on the main body line. This makes it possible to prevent it from turning over during the transfer over the main body line.

With the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention, an absorbent article having a pair of hanging side flaps of the absorbent main body can be manufactured without being subject to a restriction on the characteristics of the product. .

Modification of Example 1 A method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to example modification 1 of mode 1-1 will be described. of the present invention, with reference to Fig. 4A to Fig. 7. Next, the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the example modification 1 of mode 1-1 of the present invention will be described, focusing on the differences in the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 1, in step S12, it is assumed that the bilateral end faces 41a, 41b of a continuous fin body 120 are folded on themselves in a fin line a plurality of times.

For example, as shown in Fig. 4A, in step S12, if the bilateral end sides 41a, 41b of the continuous fin body 120 are folded back on themselves twice in the fin line, the latching elements 31a, 31b are oriented upwards as shown in Fig. 5A. Therefore, the engaging elements 31a, 31b can not be retained in a hooked manner in the continuous fin body 120. Accordingly, these bilateral end faces 41a, 41b can be temporarily retained in the continuous fin body 120 by means of a roller of enhancement or thermo-ultrasonic compression joint and the like.

Further, as shown in Fig. 4B, in step S12, if the bilateral end faces 41a, 41b of the continuous fin body 120 are folded back on themselves three times on the fin line, the latching elements 31a, 31b they are oriented downwards as shown in Fig. 5 (b). Therefore, the latching elements 31 a, 31 b can be retained in a hooked manner in the continuous fin body 120. Even in this case, the bilateral end faces 41 a, 41 b can be temporarily retained in the continuous fin body 120 by means of of a thermo-ultrasonic compression or enhancement roller or the like.

Fig. 6 shows a subsequent view for unfolding an absorbent article manufactured in a case where the bilateral end faces 41 a, 41 b in the continuous fin body 120 are bent over themselves twice in the fin line in step S12. Fig. 7 shows a subsequent view for unfolding an absorbent article manufactured in a case where the bilateral end faces 41a, 41b of the continuous fin body 120 are folded on themselves three times.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 1, a length of a fin 20 in the CD direction of the main body line can be assigned in comparison to that of an absorbent main body 10 in the direction CD of the main body line.

Modification of Example 2 A method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 2 of mode 1-1 of the present invention will be described, with reference to Fig. 8. Next, the method for manufacturing absorbent articles will be described. agree with the modification of example 2 of the present invention, focusing on the differences with the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the embodiment 1-1 of the present invention.

First, the steps to be performed on a fin line will be described.

In step S11, in continuous body 120 of an elongated fin continuously translated in the fin line, the engaging elements 32a, 32b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged on both sides of a central line C taken at length of the MD direction of the fin line.

Specifically in the continuous fin body 120, the latching elements 32a, 32b are arranged in a predetermined length interval on both sides in a region close to the centerline C taken along the MD direction of the fin line.

In step S12, at the fin line, the bilateral end faces 42a, 42b of the continuous fin body 120 are bent over toward the side of the center line C. Specifically, as shown in the section view B- B ', in the fin line, the bilateral end sides 42a, 42b of the continuous fin body 120 are folded on themselves on the upper side of the continuous fin body 120.

In addition, to prevent a circumstance in which the continuous fin 120 body is overturned at the time of transfer, a Temporary retention when applying enhancement processing or similar to the fold-over portions 52a, 52b of the fin 20.

In step S12A, a detachable line (perforated line to separate) 42 is formed in the continuous fin body 120 in such a manner as to allow the continuous fin body 120 to be divided into two sections along the central line C.

In step S13, in the fin line, the fin 20 is formed by cutting the continuous fin body 120 in a predetermined length interval along the direction (CD direction) crossing the MD direction of the fin line.

In step S25 of the main body line, after the fin 20 formed in step S13 has been inverted vertically in the fin line, the fin is attached in the continuous body 10 of the absorbent article by means of a resin thermoplastic Mode 1-2 Next, a device for manufacturing an absorbent article, according to the embodiment 1-2 of the present invention, will be described, with reference to Fig. 9 to Fig. 1 1. The device for the manufacture of absorbent articles it is provided with an attachment element arrangement mechanism 210; a bending mechanism on itself from the end side 220; and a cutting arrangement mechanism 230.

First, the arrangement mechanism of the hooking element 210 according to the mode 1-2 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the hook element arrangement mechanism 210 according to the mode 1-2 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 9, in a fin line (step 1 1 described above), in the continuous fin body 20, on either side of the center line C taken along the MD direction of the line of In the case of a flap, the attachment mechanism of the hook element 210 has latching elements 30a, 30b that can be hooked together in a predetermined region. In the embodiment, the attachment mechanism of the hook member 210 has latching elements 30a, 30b on bilateral end faces 40a, 40b of the continuous fin body 120.

The mechanism for arranging the hook element 210 is generally comprised of an upper knife roller 21 1, a lower knife roller 212, and a transfer roller 213. The upper knife roller 21 1, the lower knife roller 212, and the transfer roller 213 rotate around a support arrow (not shown), respectively.

The upper knife roller 211 has two blades 21 1 A for cutting a continuous body 140 of the latching elements. A circumferential speed (\) of the upper knife roller 211 is substantially equal to a circumferential speed (V2) of the lower knife roller 212.

In addition, the circumferential speed (Vi) of the upper knife roller 21 1 is faster than a speed (V3) to which the continuous body 140 of the two engaging elements is supplied to the lower knife roller 212 by means of a roller impeller (not shown). The circumferential velocity (Vi) of the upper knife roller 211 is substantially equal to a transfer speed (V) of the continuous body 120 of the fin that is continuously moved by a drive roll (not shown), or alternatively, is less than the transfer speed (V4) of the continuous fin body 120.

The lower knife roller 212 has two seat blades 212A coming into contact with the blades 21 A, thus cutting a continuous body 140 of the engaging elements. A plurality of adsorption orifices 212B are formed to adsorb the continuous body 140 of the engaging elements in the lower knife roller 212. The lower knife roller 212 rotates in an inverse orientation relative to the upper knife roller 21 1. The circumferential speed (V2) of the lower knife roller 212 is substantially equal to the circumferential speed (?) of the upper knife roller 21 1, as described above.

The transfer roller 213 transfers (unites), on the continuous fin body 120, to the engaging elements 30a, 30b cut by means of the upper knife roller 211 and the lower knife roller 212, between the transfer roller and the lower knife roller 212.

A circumferential speed (V5) of the transfer roller 213 is substantially equal to the transfer speed (V4) of the continuous fin body 120. That is, the circumferential speed (V5) of the transfer roller 213 is substantially equal to the circumferential speed. (Vi) of the upper knife roller 21 1 and the circumferential speed (V2) of the lower knife roller 212, a respective one of which was described above, or alternatively, is greater than the circumferential speed (Vi) of the upper knife roller 21 1 and the circumferential speed (V2) of the lower knife roller 212.

Next, a folding mechanism on itself from the end side 220 according to the mode 1-2 of the present invention will be described, with reference to the drawings. Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the folding mechanism on itself from the end side 220 according to the mode 1-2 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 10 the bending mechanism on itself of the end side 220 bends on itself at the bilateral end sides 40a, 40b of the continuous fin body 120 towards the side of the centerline C taken along of the MD direction of the fin line.

The self-bending mechanism on the end side 220 is generally comprised of a large diameter roller 221, a transfer roller 222, an outwardly bent central bar 223, and a guide roller 224. The large diameter roller 221 , the transfer roller 222, and the Guide roll 224 rotate around a support arrow (not shown), respectively.

The large diameter roller 221 contacts a central region 120C of the continuous fin body 120 (the side of the centerline C more than the bilateral end faces 40a, 40b), and then adjusts the bilateral end faces 40a, 40b together with the guide roller 224 which will be described later.

The transfer roller 222 moves the continuous fin body 120 in a substantially horizontal state. Namely, the transfer roller 222 is driven, whereby the continuous fin body 120 is translated in a substantially horizontal state.

The outwardly bent central bar 223 retains a bent position on itself along the MD direction of the fin line when the bilateral end sides 40a, 40b are bent over themselves. The outwardly bent central bar 223 extends in the MD direction of the centerline, and is provided substantially in parallel to the continuous body 120 of the fin translated by means of the transfer roller 222.

The guide roller 224 guides the bilateral end sides 40a, 40b to fold the bilateral end faces 40a, 40b to the side of the centerline C. The guide roller 224 is comprised of a set of a guide roller 224A, a guide roller 224B, a guide roller 224C, a guide roller 224D, and a guide roller 224E.

From the guide roller 224A to the guide roller 224E, the bilateral end faces 40a, 40b are folded on themselves and the central rod bent outwards 223 while the end sides are adjusted. Namely, from the guide roller 224A to the guide roller 224E, an inclination angle of the bilateral end faces 40a, 40b is gradually tapered relative to the central region 120C of the continuous fin body 120.

After the bilateral end sides 40a, 40b have been folded on themselves by means of the bending mechanism on itself on the end side 220, a temporary detent can be made by applying an enhancement processing or the like in relation to the folded portions. on themselves 50a, 50b to prevent the continuous fin 120 body from bending at the time of transfer.

Next, a cutting arrangement mechanism 230 according to the mode 1-2 of the present invention will be described, with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 1 is a perspective view showing the cutting arrangement mechanism 230 according to the mode 1-2 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 11, the cutting arrangement mechanism 230 forms the fins 20 by cutting the continuous body 120 of the fin along the CD direction of the fin line. In addition, the cutting arrangement mechanism 230 arranges the fins 20 at a predetermined length interval so that the center line C is taken along the length of the MD direction of the main body line in the continuous body 10 of the absorbent article.

The cutting arrangement mechanism 230 is generally comprised of an upper knife roller 231, a lower knife roller 232, and a transfer roller 233. The upper knife roller 231 has two blades 231A for cutting the continuous fin body 231A. The lower knife roller 232 has two seat blades 232A which come into contact with the blades 231A, thereby cutting the continuous fin body 120. A plurality of adsorption holes 232B are formed to adsorb the continuous fin body 120 on the roll. of lower blade 232.

The configurations of the upper knife roller 231, the lower knife roller 232, and the transfer roller 233 are similar to those of the upper knife roller 21 1, lower knife roller 212, and the transfer roller 213 in the knife mechanism. arrangement of the engaging element 210 described above. Therefore, a description of the cutting arrangement mechanism 230 is omitted.

Another First Modality For example, the sequential order described in the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles is not limiting in particular, it is sufficient if the absorbent articles can be manufactured, and that the sequential order can be appropriately selected is a matter according to the objective.

Although the present invention has thus been described in detail by the use of the above-described embodiments, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the specification. The present invention can be realized with modified and altered aspects without deviating from the essence and scope of the present invention defined by the claims. Therefore, the description of the present specification is intended for an illustrative explanation, and has no limiting meaning for the present invention.

The entire contents of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-0941 12 (filed March 31, 2008) and Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-074770 (filed March 25, 2009) are incorporated herein specification for reference.

Second modality Background Technique In general, in diapers of the open type, there is a need to provide a lateral flap (hanging fin) that hangs from the main absorbent body to the outside to facilitate attachment to a body.

Although a method is known for hanging a side panel material to the exterior of the absorbent main body and then employing a remaining portion when trimming as a side trap, this method involves the problem that many waste materials are produced due to trimming.

As a measure to solve this problem, a method for making diapers is known, described in Patent Document 1.

The method for making diapers has the following stages. (1) disposing a plurality of absorbers in a web having a first side end side and a second side end side in a state in which these elements are separated from each other in the MD direction (in the longitudinal direction of the web ); Y (2) isolating the frame in the CD direction (in the direction of the width of the frame) so that the network is divided into a first group in which the first side end side is an elongated part of the diaper (equivalent to one side flap) and a second group in which the second side end side is an elongated part and so that the absorber is included in a respective group of the first and second groups.

(Patent Document 1) Japanese Patent Application Open to the Public No. 2003-102777 Description of the invention However, the method for manufacturing a diaper described above involves a problem that is subject to a restriction of the characteristics of the product in which the profile of the product is formed in a profile substantially in T.

Further, in the method of making the diaper described above, since the elongated webs to be continuously moved are alternately insulated in a nested form, the webs after being insulated are translated in a state in which an elongated portion of the diaper is not continuous. , and there has been a problem in which an unstable transfer status has been established.

Furthermore, in the transfer status, in a case where the bending step on itself is applied to a diaper, there has been a problem that a very complicated stage is required.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the problem described above, and is directed to provide a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles and a device for the manufacture of absorbent articles, which are capable of consuming material at the moment of form a lateral fin without the need to use a complicated stage, by establishing a stable transfer state.

A feature of the present invention is directed to a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a front waist line element, a rear waist line element, and an inner leg element for connecting to the head element. front waist line and the rear waist line element together. The method comprises: a step of arranging the coupling element in a continuous body of an elongate fin to be moved continuously in a fin line, arranging latching elements that they may engage with each other in a predetermined region, on either side of a central line taken along a direction of transfer of the fin line; a fin forming step, on the fin line, cutting the continuous body of the fin along a direction crossing a direction of transfer of the fin line to thereby form a fin; and a fin disposing step of a line, arranging the fin in a continuous body of the front waist element or the rear waist element so that the center line is orthogonal to a direction of movement of the main body line, in where bilateral ends of the continuous body of the fin bend on themselves toward the side of the center line at the fin line.

As described above, according to the present invention, a method can be provided for the manufacture of absorbent articles and a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles that are capable of restricting the consumption of material at the time of formation of the lateral fin. without having to use a complicated stage when establishing a stable transfer status.

Modality 2-1 A method for making absorbent articles according to mode 2-1 of the present invention will be described, with reference to Fig. 12 to Fig. 15.

The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 2-1 of the present invention is capable of manufacturing absorbent articles (see Fig. 12 to Fig. 14), respective absorbent articles provided with a waist line element. front 1020b, a rear waistline element 1020a, and a crotch element (absorbent main body) 1010 for engaging the front waistline element 1020b and the rear waistline element 1020a.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a complete structure of a diaper of the open type (absorbent article) manufactured by the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the embodiment.

Fig. 13 is a view showing a state in which the latching elements 1040a, 1040b are temporarily retained after being latched in the main body of the flap 1030 in a diaper of the open type manufactured in the method for The manufacture of absorbent articles according to the modality.

Fig. 14 is a view showing a state in which the flap 1030 (self-bending portions 1051a, 1051 b) is open in the diaper of the open type manufactured by the method of manufacturing absorbent articles in accordance with the modality Next, the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment will be described, with reference to Fig. 15.

As shown in Fig. 15, it is assumed that in the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment, a fin line is used to translate a continuous body 1130 of an elongated fin; an absorbent line for transferring a continuous body 11 10 of an elongated inner leg member; and a main body line for transferring a pair of a continuous body 1120b of a front waist line element and a continuous body 1 120a of a rear waist line element, a respective one of which is formed with an elongated profile.

Although the embodiment, as shown in Fig. 15, describes an example of a case in which the MD address (transfer direction) of the fin line, the MD address of the main body line, and the MD address of The absorbent line are identical to each other, the present invention is not limited to the same.

First, a description will be provided regarding the steps to be performed in an absorbent line in which an absorbent provided in the inner leg member 01 1 is moved.

In step S101 1, a pulp sheet is milled by means of a grinder, a ground pulp is generated, and when the ground pulp passes through a pulp supply duct, a highly absorbent polymer (SAP) is mixed.

Subsequently, a mixture of the ground pulp supplied from the pulp supply duct and the highly absorbent polymer is laminated in a predetermined profile by means of a rolling drum, thus molding the absorbent cores 1001.

In step S1012, in a sheet-like fabric 1002a to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the absorbent line, the absorbent cores 1001 are placed in a predetermined length range in the MD direction of the absorbent line.

Subsequently, a sheet-like fabric 1002b to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the absorbent line is superimposed on the fabric 1002a in which a plurality of absorbent cores 1001 are placed along the MD direction of the absorbent line .

In step S1013, a topsheet (liquid permeable) 1012b to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the absorbent line joins after being superimposed on the sheet-like tissue 1002b, and then, a backsheet (impermeable to liquids) 1012 to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the absorbent line is attached after being superimposed under the tissue similar to sheet 1002a.

In step S 0 4, barrier sleeves 1003 formed by another element are attached to both side ends of the crotch element 1010 along the MD direction of the absorbent line.

In step S1015, the continuous bodies 10 of the crotch element (absorbent bodies) to be moved continuously in the MD direction of the absorbent line are moved by means of rotating a rotating drum and cut along the CD address in an interval of predetermined length by means of a cutting roller arranged to be opposite an outer circumferential face of the rotating drum, thus forming the crotch element 1010.

Second, a description will be provided regarding the steps to be performed on the fin line in which a fin 1030 provided in the rear waist line element 1020a is moved.

In step S1021, in a continuous body 130 of an elongate fin to be translated continuously in a fin line, the latching elements 1040a, 1040b that may be engaged with each other in a predetermined region of the front waistline element 1020b they are arranged on both sides of the center line C taken along the MD direction of the fin line.

Specifically, the latching elements 1040a, 1040b are joined together at a predetermined length interval on the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b of the continuous fin body 130.

In a case where hook elements (male elements) are arranged as the latching elements 1040a, 1040b, it is assumed that the elements to which the hooks are directed (female elements) are provided as elements to which the coupling is directed in a predetermined region of the front waistline element 1020b.

In the embodiment, the front waist line element 1020b is comprised of non-woven fabric and therefore, even if the element to which the hook is directed is not provided separately, the predetermined region per se. of the front waist line element 1020b serves as the element to which the hook is directed.

In step S1022, in a fin line, the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b of the continuous fin body 30 are folded on themselves to the side of the center line C and the latching elements 1040a, 1040b disposed on the sides bilateral ends 1050a, 050b are temporarily retained after being retained in a hooked manner in the continuous fin body 130.

The temporary retention may be carried out by applying further enhancement processing or the like, after the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b have been latched in the continuous fin body 1130 by means of the latching elements 1040a, 1040b.

As described below, it is assumed that the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b of the continuous fin body 130 are folded on themselves towards the side of the center line C so that a width in a direction through the centerline C in the flap 1030 is shorter than a cutting interval of the front waist line element 1 120b and the rear waist line element 1 120a.

In step S1023, on a fin line, a fin is formed 1030 when cutting the continuous fin body 1130 in a predetermined length interval along one direction (the CD direction) crossing the MD direction of the fin line.

A part cut in a predetermined profile (for example in a curved profile taken along the groin) on part of the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b temporarily retained in the continuous fin body 130 before cutting the continuous fin body 1130.

Alternatively, a portion cut in a predetermined profile (for example in a curved profile taken along the groin) may be formed in part from the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b temporarily retained in the fin 1030 after cutting the continuous fin body 1030 Third, a description will be provided regarding the steps to be performed in a main body line in which the continuous body 1 120b of the front waist line element and the continuous body 1120a of the rear waist line member is moved.

In step S1031, a pair of continuous bodies of the waistline elements (the continuous body 1 120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 120a of the rear waistline element), a respective one of which it is formed with an elongated profile, they are generated from non-woven fabric, and then, they move in the MD direction of the main body line.

The continuous body 1120b of the front waist line element and the continuous body 1 120a of the rear waist line element can be elastic.

In step S1032, between the continuous body 1120b of the elongated front waist line and the continuous body 1 120a of the elongate rear waist line element, to be continuously moved in the main body line, the crotch element 1010 is disposed formed in step S1015 on the line of the absorbent in a state in which these elements are separated from each other in the MD direction of the main body line.

In step S1033, in the main body line, the flap 1030 formed in the step S1030 is arranged in the continuous body 1120a of the rear waist line element so that the center line C is orthogonal to the MD direction of the line of main body.

Specifically in the step S1033, in the main body line, the flap 1030 and the continuous body 1 120a of the back waist line element are joined together so that one of the respective flaps 1030 corresponds to a respective 1020A region that forms an absorbent article (rear waist line element 1020a) in the continuous body 1 120a of the rear waist line element.

After the flap 1030 formed in the step S1023 in the fin line has been rotated by 90 degrees, the rotated flap is joined in the continuous body 1 120a of the back waist line element by means of a thermoplastic resin.

The thermoplastic resin can be applied over the entire back side of the flap 1030 or the thermoplastic resin can be applied only to a part of the back side of the flap 1030.

In step S1033, the flap 1030 can be joined in the continuous body 1120a of the rear waist line element by means of a thermo-ultrasonic compression or enhancement roller or the like. In addition, in step S1033, the flap 1030 can be arranged to cover end portions of the crotch element 1010, in the continuous body 1120a of the back waist line element.

In step S1034, in the main body line, the continuous body 1 120b of the front waist line element and the continuous body 1 120a of the rear waistline element are cut to a predetermined length interval along the length of the body. CD address of the main body line.

Specifically, the continuous body 1 120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 1 120a of the rear waistline element are cut such that a length L3 of the front waistline element 1020b in the widthwise direction of an absorbent article is equal to a length L2 of the rear waist line element 1020a in the widthwise direction of the absorbent article.

A width L1 in a direction crossing the center line C in the flap 1030 is shorter than a predetermined length interval (step) L2 which is a continuous body cut-off interval 1 120b of the element of front waist line and continuous body 1 120a of the rear waist line element.

Although the above embodiment describes an example in which the flap 1030 having the latching elements 1040a, 1040b arranged to be able to engage with each other in a predetermined region of the front waist line element 1020b is configured to be arranged on the continuous body 2120a of the back waist line element, the present invention is not limited to the same. It also applies to an example in which the flap 1030 having the latching elements 1040a, 1040b arranged to be able to engage with each other in a predetermined region of the rear waist line element 1020a is configured to be arranged in the continuous body 2120b of the element of front waist line.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 2-1 of the present invention, described above, absorbent articles having a pair of side flaps hanging from an absorbent main body can be manufactured without being subject to constraints on the characteristics of the product.

With the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the mode 2-1 of the present invention, the crotch element 1010 can be continuously moved in the main body line, thus making it possible to achieve a state of stable transfer and turning of absorbent articles without applying a complicated stage.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the mode 2-1 of the present invention, the flap 1030 is fixed by means of the latching elements 1040a, 1040b thus making it possible to prevent a tumbling during the transfer.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the mode 2-1 of the present invention, the width L1 in the direction crossing the center line C in the flap 1030 is shorter than a predetermined length interval (step) L2, thus making it possible to prevent the cutting of the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b of the flap 1030 due to a change of cut in the main body line.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the mode 2-1 of the present invention, the continuous body 1 120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 1120a of the rear waistline element are continuously moved, so that a continuous end portion of the body 1 120b of the front waistline element and an end portion of the continuous body 1 120a of the rear waistline element can be bent over and superposed on each other. Therefore, a respective one of the continuous body 1120b of the front waist line element and the continuous body 1 120a of the rear waist line element which is superimposed, can be cut simultaneously and an open type diaper and a diaper of the type can be formed Underpants according to the same stage of cut. Therefore, the diaper can be manufactured Open type and diaper type underpants without the need to change the cutting stage and the cutter per se for cutting.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 2-1 of the present invention, the flap 1030 is arranged to cover end portions of the crotch element 1010, in the continuous body 1120a of the back waist line element, thus making it possible to prevent a circumstance from leaking the SAP that configures the absorbent core 1001 or the milled pulp.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 2-1 of the present invention, a different portion of the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b of the flap 1030 can be employed as a region of attachment to the line element of the invention. 1020a rear waist. Therefore, a joint strength between the flap 1030 and the rear waist line member 1020a can be held strong and a failure of the thermoplastic resin produced to be spread out in a case where the joint region is small can be eliminated.

Modality 2-2 A method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the embodiment 2-2 of the present invention will be described, with reference to Fig. 16 to Fig. 18. Next, a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles will be described. according to the mode 2-2 of the present invention focusing on the differences with the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the mode 2-1 of the present invention.

Fig. 16 is a view showing a state in which the latching elements 1041a, 1041 b are temporarily retained after being latched in a rear waist line element 1020a in an open-type diaper manufactured by the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the modality.

Fig. 17 is a view showing a state in which a detachable line (perforated line for separation) 1050 to be described later is released and a flap 1030 is opened in the diaper of the open type manufactured by the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the modality.

Next, the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment will be described, with reference to Fig. 18.

First, the stage to be developed in an absorbent line is identical to that to be developed in the absorbent line in the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the mode 2-1, described above. Therefore a duplicate description is omitted.

Second, the steps to be performed on a fin line will be described.

In step S1021A, in a continuous body 1130 of an elongated fin to be moved continuously in the fin line, the elements of latch 1041 a, 1041 b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region of a front waist line element 1020b are disposed on both sides of a center line C taken along the MD direction of a fin line.

Specifically in the continuous fin body 1130, the latching members 1041a, 1041 b are disposed at predetermined length intervals on both sides in a region close to the center line C taken along the MD direction of the fin line.

In addition, a latching element can be arranged through the center line C instead of having two latching elements 1041 a, 1041 b on both sides of the center line C as latching elements.

In step S1022A, at the fin line, the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b of the continuous fin body 1130 are bent over towards the side of the center line C. Specifically, as shown in the sectional view taken at along the line B-B ', on the fin line, the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b of the continuous fin body 1130 are folded on themselves upwardly of the continuous fin body 1 130.

To prevent a situation of overturning occurring at the time of transfer of the continuous fin body 130, a temporary retention may be made by applying enhancement processing or the like to the folded portions 1051a, 1051b of the fin 1030.

In step S1022B, a detached line (perforated line for separation) 1050 is formed in the continuous fin body 130 in such a manner as to allow the continuous fin body 130 to be divided into two sections along the central line C .

The detached line 1050 can be formed in step S1021A, S1022A or S1023. In addition, the 1050 detached line can be formed with a linear profile or it can be formed with a curved profile as long as it is taken along the center line C.

In addition, at any stage in the fin line, a portion cut in a predetermined profile (eg, a curved profile taken along the groin) may be formed in part from the proximal region of the center line C described above.

Third, the steps to be performed on a main body line will be described. Steps S1031 and S1032 are identical to steps S1031 and S1032 in the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the mode 2-1 described above; and therefore, a description is omitted in duplicate.

In step S1033A, in the main body line, a flap 1030 formed in step S1023 is arranged in a continuous body 1 120a of a back waist line element so that the center line C is orthogonal to the MD direction of the main body line.

Specifically, the flap 1030 formed in step S1023 in the fin line is rotated by 90 degrees and is vertically inverted; Y subsequently, the resultant fin is attached to a continuous body 1120a of the rear waist line element by means of a thermoplastic resin.

Specifically in the step S1033A, in the main body line, the flap 1030 and the continuous body 1120a of the rear belt line element are joined together so that one of the respective flaps 1030 corresponds to one of the respective regions 1020A which they form an absorbent article (rear waist line element 1020a) in the continuous body 1 120a of the rear waist line element.

In step S1033, it is preferable that the flap 1030 be joined on the continuous body 1 120a of the back waist line element by means of a thermo-ultrasonic compression or enhancement roller. In addition, a thermoplastic resin may be applied over the entire back side corresponding to the self-bending portions 1051 a, 1051 b of the flap 1030, or alternatively, a thermoplastic resin may be applied to only a part of the back side corresponding to the self-bending portions 1051a, 1051 b of flap 1030.

In step S 034, in the main body line, the continuous body 1 120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 1 120b of the rear waistline element are cut along the CD direction of the line from main body to a predetermined length interval.

Specifically, the continuous body 1 120b of the front waist line element and the continuous body 1120a of the waistline element Subsequently, they are cut such that a length L3 of the front waist line element 1020b in the widthwise direction of an absorbent article is equal to a length L2 of the rear waist line element 1020a in a widthwise direction of the absorbent article. .

A length L1 in a direction crossing the center line C in the flap 1030 is less than a predetermined length interval (step) L2 which is a cutting interval of the continuous body 1120b of the front waist line element and the continuous body 1120a of the rear waist line element.

With the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the embodiment 2-2 of the present invention, described above, a detachable line 1050 is formed along a center line of the flap 1030, and the flap 1030 is not divided in two sections, thus making it possible to prevent a circumstance of tipping occurring during the transfer of the main body line.

Mode 2-3 Next, a device will be described by manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 2-3 of the present invention, with reference to Fig. 19 to Fig. 21. The device for manufacturing absorbent articles is provided with: a latching element arrangement mechanism 1210; a folding mechanism on itself from the end side 1 120; and a cutting arrangement mechanism 1230.

First, the arrangement mechanism of the latch member 1210 according to the mode 2-3 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 19 is a perspective view showing the latch member arrangement mechanism 1210 according to the embodiment 2-3 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 19, in a continuous body 1030 of an elongate fin 130 to be continuously moved in a fin line (in step S21 described above), on both sides of the center line C taken along of the MD direction, the arrangement mechanism of the latch member 1210 has latching elements 1042a, 1042b that can engage with each other in a predetermined region. In the embodiment, the arrangement mechanism of the latch member 1210 has latching elements 1042a, 1042b on bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b of the continuous fin body 130.

The mechanism for arranging the hooking element 1210 is generally comprised of an upper knife roller 121 1, a lower knife roller 1212, and a transfer roller 1213. The upper knife roller 1211, the lower knife roller 1212 , and the transfer roller 1213 rotate around a support arrow (not shown), respectively.

The upper blade roller 1211 has two blades 1211 A for cutting a continuous body 1140 of the engaging elements. A circumferential speed (Vi) of the upper knife roller 1211 is substantially equal to a circumferential speed (V2) of the lower knife roller 1212.

In addition, the circumferential speed (\) of the upper knife roller 1211 is faster than a speed (V3) to which the continuous body 1140 of the two engaging elements is supplied to the lower knife roller 1212 by means of a driving roller (not shown). The circumferential speed (Vi) of the upper blade roller 1211 is substantially equal to a transfer speed (V) of the continuous blade body 1130 that is continuously moved by a drive roller (not shown), or is less than the speed of transfer (V4) of continuous fin body 1130.

The lower knife roller 1212 has two seat blades 2 2A which come into contact with the blades 1211 A, thereby cutting a continuous body 1140 from the engaging elements. A plurality of adsorption holes 1212B are formed to adsorb the continuous body 1140 of the engaging elements in the lower knife roller 1212. The lower knife roller 1212 rotates in a reverse orientation relative to the upper knife roller 1211. The speed The circumferential (V2) of the lower knife roller 1212 is substantially equal to the circumferential speed (?) of the upper knife roller 1211, as described above.

The transfer roller 1213 transfers (unites), on the continuous fin body 130, the engaging elements 1042a, 1042b cut by means of the upper knife roller 1211 and the lower knife roller 1212, between the transfer roller and the lower blade roller 1212.

A circumferential speed (V5) of the transfer roller 1213 is substantially equal to the transfer speed (V4) of the continuous fin body 130. That is, the circumferential speed (V5) of the transfer roller 1213 is substantially equal to the circumferential speed (\) of the upper knife roller 121 1 and the circumferential speed (V2) of the lower knife roller 1212, described above, or alternatively, is greater than the circumferential speed ()) of the upper knife roller 121 1 and the circumferential speed (V2) of the lower knife roller 1212.

Next, a folding mechanism on itself of the end side 1220 according to the mode 2-3 of the present invention will be described, with reference to the drawings. Fig. 20 is a perspective view showing the folding mechanism on itself from the end side 1220 according to the embodiment 2-3 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 20 the bending mechanism on itself from the end side 1220 bends on itself to the bilateral end sides 1050a, 1050b of the continuous fin body 1130 to the side of the centerline C taken along of the MD direction of the fin line.

The self-bending mechanism of the end side 1220 is generally comprised of a large diameter roller 1221, a transfer roller 1222, an outwardly bent central bar 1223, and guide rollers 1224. The large diameter roller 1221, the transfer roller 1222, and the guide rollers 1224 rotate about a support arrow (not shown), respectively.

The large diameter roller 1221 comes into contact with a central region 1 120C of the continuous fin body 130 (the side of the centerline C more than the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b), and then adjusts the bilateral end faces 1050a , 1050b together with the guide rollers 1224 which will be described later.

The transfer roller 1222 moves the continuous fin body 130 in a substantially horizontal state. Namely, the transfer roller 1222 is driven, whereby the continuous fin body 130 is translated in a substantially horizontal state.

The outwardly bent center bar 1223 retains a bent position on itself along the MD direction of the fin line when the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b are bent over themselves. The outwardly bent center bar 1223 extends in the MD direction of the center line, and is provided substantially in parallel to the continuous body 130 of the fin translated by means of the transfer roller 1222.

The guide rollers 1224 guide the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b to bend the bilateral end faces 1050a, 050b to the side of the centerline C. A guide roller assembly 1224 is formed of a guide roller 224A, a guide roller 224B , a guide roller 224C, a guide roller 224D, and a guide roller 224E.

From the guide roller 224A to the guide roller 224E, the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b are bent over themselves via the center bar bent outwards 1223 while the end sides are adjusted. Namely, from the guide roller 224A to the guide roller 224E, an inclination angle of the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b is gradually tapered with respect to the central region 1 120C of the continuous fin body 1130.

Temporary retention may be made by applying an enhancement processing or the like to the self-bent portions 1051 a, 1051b formed by the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b that bend over themselves and the flap 1030 which is superimposed to prevent the continuous fin body 1130 is turned over at the time of transfer after the bilateral end faces 1050a, 1050b have been folded on themselves by means of the bending mechanism on itself on the end side 1220.

Next, a cutting arrangement mechanism will be described 1230 according to the embodiment 2-3 of the present invention, with reference to the drawings. Fig. 21 is a perspective view showing the cutting arrangement mechanism 1230 according to the embodiment 2-3 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 21, a flap 1030 is formed by cutting the continuous body 130 of the flap at predetermined length intervals along the CD direction of the flap line. In addition, the cutting arrangement mechanism 1230 arranges flap 1030 in a continuous body 1 120a of a rear belt line element so that a center line C is orthogonal to the MD direction of a main body line.

Specifically, the cutting arrangement mechanism 1230 is generally comprised of an upper knife roller 1231, and a rotary drum 1232.

The continuous body cutting roller 1231 is comprised of a knife roller 1231A having a blade (not shown); and a seat knife roller 1231 B having a seat knife (not shown). A circumferential speed (V8) of the knife roller 1231 A is substantially equal to a circumferential speed (V9) of the knife roller 1231 B.

The rotating drum 1232 has a plurality of adsorbent pads 1233 for adsorbing the flap 1030 which is cut by means of the knife roller 1231A and has the seat knife roller 1231 B. The rotary drum 1232 rotates around a support arrow 232A, thus disposing the flap 1030 adsorbed by the adsorbent pad 1233 on the continuous body 1 120a of a rear waist line element.

A circumferential speed (V10) of the rotating drum 1232 is substantially equal to a transfer speed (V-n) of a continuous body 1 120b of a front waist line element and a continuous body 1 120a of a rear waist line element.

The rotating drum 1232 rotates the adsorbent pads by 90 degrees by means of a rotary mechanism (not shown) while moving the adsorbent pads 1233 upwardly to an upper portion of the continuous body 1120a of the posterior waist line element. In this way, the cutting arrangement mechanism 1230 rotates the flap 1030 by 90 degrees and inverts the flap vertically, and then, allows the flap to be joined with the continuous body 120a of the back waist line element.

Example Modifications Next, a cutting arrangement mechanism 1250 will be described in accordance with the exemplary modifications of mode 2-3 of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing the cutting arrangement mechanism 1250 according to the example modification. Similar constituent elements of the cutting arrangement mechanism 1230 according to the mode 2-3 described above are designated by similar reference numerals, and the differences between them will be mainly described.

In the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the present invention, in the main body line, the fin 30 it is arranged in the continuous body 1 120a of the rear waistline element so that the center line C is orthogonal to the MD direction of the main body line. In the embodiment 2-3 described above, after the flap 1030 has been rotated by 90 degrees and has been vertically inverted, the flap 1030 is attached to the continuous body 1210a of the back waist line element. In contrast to this, in the example modification, the flap 1030 is attached to the continuous body 120a of the rear waistline element without the flap 1030 being rotated by 90 degrees and vertically inverted.

As shown in Fig. 22, a cutting arrangement mechanism 1250 in accordance with the example modification forms a flap 1030 by cutting a continuous fin body 130 at predetermined length intervals. In addition, the cutting arrangement mechanism 1250 arranges the flap 1030 on a continuous body of a rear waist line element without rotating the cut and forming the flap 1030.

Specifically, the cutting arrangement mechanism 1250 cuts the continuous vane body 130 moved by an endless band 1251 at predetermined length intervals and joins the continuous body on a continuous body 120a of the rear waistline element by means of a thermoplastic resin or the like.

The cutting arrangement mechanism 1250 has an upper knife roller 1253 that rotates about an axial core 1252; and a lower knife roller 1255 that rotates about an axial core 1254.

In the upper knife roller 1252, a plurality of blades 1253A are provided to be disposed at a predetermined interval on an outer circumference of the upper knife roller 1253 and substantially parallel to the axial core 1252. On the lower knife roller 1255, a suction port 1255A is provided for sucking a flap 1030 formed to ensure cutting of the continuous fin body 130; and a seat blade (not shown) is provided for cutting the continuous fin body 130 between the seat blade and the blades 1253A.

On a circumferential face of the lower knife roller 1255, a first zone Z1 is provided to bring the continuous fin body 1130 into intimate contact with it with a weak adhesion force; and a second zone Z2 is provided to put the flap 1030 formed to ensure that the continuous fin body 130 is cut, in intimate contact with it with a given adhesion force that is greater than that in the first zone Z1.

When the continuous fin body 1130 passes through the first zone Z1, it is adsorbed on a circumferential face of the lower knife roller 1255 by means of the suction hole 1255A formed in the first zone Z1 while sliding the circumferential face of the knife roller bottom 1255. At this time, a flap 1030 is formed by ensuring that the continuous fin body 130 is cut between the blade 1253A and the seat blade.

When the flap 1030 passes through the second zone Z2, it comes into intimate contact with the circumferential face of the lower blade roller 1255 by means of the suction hole 1255A formed in the second zone Z2, without sliding the circumferential face of the blade roller bottom 1255. Then, the flap 1030 approaches a continuous body 1 120a of a rear waist line element by means of the lower blade roller 1255 and joins the continuous body 1 120a of the back waist line element.

Another Second Modality For example, the sequential order described in the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles is not limiting in particular, it is sufficient if the absorbent articles can be manufactured, and that the sequential order can be appropriately selected is a matter according to the objective.

The full contents of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-094064 (filed on March 31, 2008) and the Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-074773 (filed on March 25, 2009) are incorporated in the present specification for reference.

Third Modality Background Technique In general, in a diaper of the open type, there is a need to provide a side flap that hangs from an absorbent main body to the outside to facilitate placement on a user's body.

A manufacturing method for providing a side flap in the diaper of the open type in the following steps is known (eg, Patent Document 1). (1) The step of forming a detachable line along the CD direction (the direction of crossing in the direction of transfer) between each first planar fastener of the part of the band and each second planar fastener of the part of the band which are disposed along the CD direction in a continuous body (continuous band part) of a fin. (2) The step of forming a joint region in the CD direction by arranging the continuous body (continuous band portion) of a flap along an end portion of a continuous body of a diaper main body.

(Patent Document 1) Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-340862.

Description of the invention However, in the method described above for the manufacture of diapers of the open type, the detachable line and the direction of MD (direction of transfer) are orthogonal to each other in a fin line for moving the continuous fin body (band part). keep going). Therefore, there has been a problem that if the break resistance of the cutting line is reinforced so that the detachable line on the fin line is not allowed to be cut, it becomes difficult for a wearer of the manufactured diaper to cut the detachable line In addition, in the method for manufacturing diapers of the open type described above, in a case where the resistance of the peel-off line is weakened to allow the wearer of the manufactured diaper to cut a tear-off line that can be cut, the peel-off line can be cut while the continuous fin body is translated on the fin line, and there has been the problem that the continuous fin body (continuous band part) can not be continuously moved on the fin line or an advanced control is required for continuously moving the fin continuous body (continuous band part) into the fin line, resulting in a complicated manufacturing facility.

The present invention has been made in view of the problem described above, and is directed to propose a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles and a device for the manufacture of absorbent articles, which are capable of forming a side flap that a user it can easily unfold, while achieving a continuous transfer of the continuous fin body (continuous band part) on the fin line without the need for advanced control.

A feature of the present invention is directed to a method for manufacturing absorbent articles, to respective absorbent articles provided with a front waist line element, a rear waist line element, and a crotch element for connecting the front waist line element and the rear waist line element to each other. The method comprises: a step of forming a part that bends over itself to form a pair of parts that bend over themselves, which can bend over themselves in a direction of transfer of the fin line and in one direction opposite to the direction of transfer, a part of a region that forms a fin in a continuous body of an elongated fin that is to be continuously moved in a fin line, and latching arrangement elements that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region, in a respective pair of said pair of parts that fold over themselves; and a joining step for joining the continuous body of the fin and a continuous body of the front waist line element or the rear waist line element of the fin so that a respective region forming said fin corresponds to a respective region which configures one of the absorbent articles in the continuous body of the front waist line element or the rear waist line element.

As described above, according to the present invention, a method can be provided for the manufacture of absorbent articles and a device for the manufacture of absorbent articles, which are capable of forming a side flap that a user can unfold easily, while achieves a continuous transfer of a continuous fin body (part of continuous band) on the fin line without the need to use advanced control.

Mode 3-1 A method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention will be described, with reference to Fig. 23 and Figs. 24A-24B.

The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention is capable of manufacturing absorbent articles, for example, diapers of the open type, comprising a front waistline element 2020b, a line element back waist 2020a, and a crotch element (absorbent main body) 2010 for connecting the front waistline element 2020b and the rear waist line element 2020a to each other.

Next, a method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment will be described, with reference to Fig. 23.

As shown in Fig. 23, it is assumed that in the method for manufacturing absorbent articles, a fin line is used to translate a continuous body 2130 of an elongated fin; an absorbent line for transferring a continuous body 21 10 of an elongated inner leg member; and a main body line for transferring a pair of a continuous body 2120b of a front waist line element and a continuous body 2120a of a rear waist line element, one of which is formed in an elongated profile.

Although the embodiment as shown in Fig. 23 describes an example of a case in which the MD line (transfer direction) of a fin line, the MD line of a main body line, and the MD line of a Absorber line are identical to each other, the present invention is not limited to the same.

First, a description will be provided regarding the stage to be performed in an absorbent line in which absorbents provided in the crotch element 2010 are moved.

In step S201 1, a pulp sheet is milled by means of a grinding mechanism to generate a ground pulp, and when the ground pulp passes through a pulp supply duct, a highly absorbent polymer (SAP) is mixed.

Subsequently, a mixture of the ground pulp supplied from the pulp supply duct and the highly absorbent polymer is laminated in a predetermined profile by means of a rolling drum, thus molding the absorbent cores 2001 (absorbent).

In step S2012, in a sheet-like fabric 2002a to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the absorbent line, the absorbent cores 2001 are placed within a predetermined length range in the MD direction of the absorber line.

Subsequently, a sheet-like fabric 2002b to be continuously moved in the direction MD of the absorbent line is superimposed on the fabric 2002a in which a plurality of absorbent cores 2001 are placed along the direction MD of the absorbent line.

In step S2013, a topsheet (liquid permeable) 2012b to be continuously moved in the MD direction of the absorbent line joins after being superimposed on the sheet-like tissue 2002b, and then, a backsheet (impermeable to liquids) 2012a to be continuously moved in the direction MD of the absorbent line joins after being superimposed under the tissue similar to sheet 2002a.

In step S2014, barrier sleeves 2003 are formed by any element attached to both side ends of the crotch element 2010 along the MD direction of the absorbent line.

In step S2015, the continuous bodies 21 of the crotch element 2010 (absorbent bodies) to be moved continuously in the MD direction of the absorbent line are moved by means of the rotation of a rotating drum and cut along the CD address to predetermined length intervals by means of a cutting roller arranged to be opposite an outer circumferential face of the rotating drum.

Second, a description will be provided regarding the steps to be performed on the fin line in which a fin 2030 provided in the rear waistline element 2020a is moved.

In step S2021, the latching elements 2040a, 2040b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged in a portion of a region 2030A that forms a fin 2030 in a continuous body 2130 of an elongated fin to be moved continuously on a fin line.

Specifically, the latching elements 2040a, 2040b are joined together at a predetermined length interval in the continuous fin body 2130. It is assumed that a length of one of the respective latching elements 2040a, 2040b is shorter than that of the body. continuous of fin 2130 in the CD direction of the fin line.

In a case where hook elements (male elements) are arranged as the latching elements 2040a, 2040b, elements to which the hooks (female elements) are directed are assumed to be provided as elements to which the hooking is directed in a predetermined region of the front waistline element 2020b.

In the embodiment, the front waist line element 2020b is comprised of non-woven fabric and therefore, even if the element to which the hook is not provided separately, the predetermined region per se of the front waistline element 2020b serves as the element to which the hook is directed.

In step S2022, a pair of self-bending parts 2050a, 2050b that can bend over themselves in an MD direction (transfer direction) of a fin line and in a direction opposite to the MD direction are formed in a region that includes one of the respective latching elements 2040a, 2040b in a part of the region 2030A mentioned above.

As shown in Fig. 24A, it is assumed that the self-bending part 2050a is formed by: a first notched part (first slot) 2050a3 formed along the CD direction (transfer direction) of the line of fin; and two notched second portions (second grooves) 2050a1, 2050a2 formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

On the other hand, it is assumed that the self-bending part 2050b is formed by: a notched first part (first slot) 2050b3 formed along the CD direction (moving direction) of the fin line; and two notched second portions (second slots) 2050b1, 2050b2 formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

As shown in Fig. 24B, the fold-over part 2050b bends over itself in the MD direction of the fin line in an articulated manner, and even if the part that bends over itself 2050a bends on itself in a direction opposite to the MD direction of the fin line, the continuous fin body 2130 is not cut and is folded on itself the full length in the CD direction of the fin line, thus making It is possible to avoid a circumstance of accidental bending over itself during the continuous transfer.

At least a portion of the first notched portions (first grooves) 2050a3, 2050b3, and the second notched portions (second grooves) 2050a1, 2050a2, 2050b1, 2050b2 may be comprised of a peel-off line such as a perforated line for separation.

In particular, it is preferable that at least a part of the first cutting lines (first grooves) 2030a3, 2050b3 be comprised of a detachable line such as a perforated line for separation. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent a circumstance that the self-bending parts 2050a, 2050b turn when the continuous fin body 2130 is continuously moved on the fin line.

In addition, the first notched portions (first grooves) 2050a3, 2050b3, and the second notched portions (second grooves) 2050a, 2050a2, 2050b1, 2050b2 can be formed with a linear profile or can be formed with a curved profile.

In addition, the sequential order of the above-mentioned step S2201 and the step S2022 can be reversed. That is, in a step S2022 a pair of self-bending parts 2050a, 2050b has been formed in a portion of region 2030A that forms a fin 2030 in the continuous body 2130 of an elongated fin that is to be continuously moved on the fin line; and subsequently, the latching elements 2040a, 2040b which engage in a predetermined region can be arranged in a respective pair of said pairs of parts that bend over themselves 2050a, 2050b.

Third, a description will be provided regarding the step to be performed on the main body line in which the continuous body 2120b of the front waist line member and the continuous body 2120a of the rear waist line member is moved.

In step S2031, a pair of continuous bodies of the waistline elements (the continuous body 2120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element), a respective one of which is formed with an elongated profile, it is generated from non-woven fabric, and then, it moves in the MD direction of the main body line.

The continuous body 2120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element may be elastic.

In step S2032, between the continuous body 2120b of the elongated front waistline and the continuous body 2120a of the elongate rear waist line element, to be continuously moved in the line of Main body, the crotch element 2010 formed in step S2015 on the absorbent line is disposed in a state in which these elements are separated from each other in the MD direction of the main body line.

In the step S2033, in the main body line, the fin 2130 and the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element are joined together so that a respective region 2030A that forms a fin 2030 in the continuous fin body 2130 corresponds to a respective region 2030A which configures an absorbent article (back waist line element 2020a) in the continuous body 2120a of the rear waist line element.

That is, in the absorbent article, the continuous fin body 2130 and the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element are joined together so that the engaging elements 2040a, 2040b are disposed in the vicinity of the center of the fastener element. back waist line 2020a.

Specifically, it is preferable that region 2030A and region 2020A be joined together along an end portion in the widthwise direction of the absorbent article.

In step S2033, it is preferable that the continuous fin body 2130 is attached to the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element by means of a thermo-ultrasonic compression or enhancement roller or the like. In addition, a thermoplastic resin can be applied to the entire rear side of the continuous fin body 2130 or a thermoplastic resin can be applied only to a part of the rear side of the fin continuous body 2130.

In step S2033, the latching elements 2040a, 2040b disposed in a pair of self-bending parts 2050a, 2050b, respectively, can be latched in the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element.

In step S2034, in the main body line, the continuous body 2120b of the front waist line element and the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element are cut at predetermined length intervals along the CD direction of the main body line.

Specifically, the continuous body 2120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element are cut such that a length L3 of the front waistline element 2020b in the widthwise direction of an article Absorbent is equal to a length L2 of the rear waist line element 2020a in the widthwise direction of the absorbent article.

Although the above embodiment describes an example in which the continuous flap body 2130 having the latching elements 2040a, 2040b arranged to be engageable with each other in a predetermined region of the front waistline element 2020b is configured to be disposed on the continuous body 2120a of the line element of rear waist, the present invention is not limited to the same. It also applies to an example in which the continuous fin body 2130 having the latching elements 2040a, 2040b arranged to be able to engage with each other in a predetermined region of the rear waistline element 2020a are configured to be arranged in the continuous body 2120b of the front waist line element.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention, a pair of self-bending parts 2050a, 2050b is formed so as not to allow the continuous fin body 2130 to be cut completely in the CD address of the fin line. This makes it possible to avoid a circumstance in which: the continuous fin body can not be continuously moved on the fin line due to the fact that the fin can easily be unfolded by a user and cut on the fin line; or alternatively, advanced control is required to continuously move the continuous fin body into the fin line, resulting in a complicated manufacturing facility.

With the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles, according to the mode 3-1 of the present invention, instead of disposing one of the respective fins 2030 formed by cutting the continuous fin body 2130 in the continuous body 2120a of the fastener element. rear waist line, the continuous fin body 2130 is disposed in the continuous body 2120a of the rear waist line element, thus eliminating a need for a complicated installation with high precision.

With the method for manufacturing absorbent articles, according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention, the continuous body 3120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 3120a of the rear waistline element are continuously moved, so that an end portion of the continuous body 3120b of the front waistline element and an end portion of the continuous body 3120a of the rear waistline element can easily fold over and overlap each other. Therefore, the continuous body 3120b of the front waistline element and the continuous body 3120a of the rear waistline element, one of which is overlapped, can be cut simultaneously, and an open type diaper and a diaper can be manufactured. of the underpants type in the same stage of cut. Therefore, an open-type diaper and the underwear-type diaper can be manufactured without the need to change the cutting step and the cutter per se for cutting.

Modification of Example 1 A method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the example modification 1 of mode 3-1 will be described, with reference to Fig. 25. The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the modification will now be described. of Example 1 of the present invention focusing on the differences with the method of manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 25, between the steps to be performed in a fin line, in step S2021, the latching elements 2041a, 2041b which are arranged to be able to engage with each other in a predetermined region are arranged in a portion of a region 2030A that forms a fin 2030 in the continuous body 2130 of an elongate fin that is to be continuously moved in a fin line.

In the step S2022 in the part of the aforementioned region 2030A, a pair of self-bending parts 2051 a, 2051 b are formed which can bend over themselves in an MD direction of the fin line and in one direction opposite to the direction MD, respectively, in the region that includes respectively one of the latching elements 2041 a, 2041 b.

As shown in Fig. 25, it is assumed that each pair of self-bending parts 2051a, 2051 b is formed by: a first cut part (first cutout) 2510 is formed along the CD direction of the fin line; and four notched second portions (second grooves) 2051a1, 2051a2, 2051 b1, 2051 b2 that are formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

The first cut part (first cutout) 2510, as shown in Fig. 25, is provided in the vicinity of a central region in the CD direction of the fin line.

In this case, it is preferable that at least a part of the second notched portions (second grooves) 2051a1, 2051a2, 2051 b1, 2051 b2 is comprised of a detachable line such as a perforated line for separation. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent a circumstance in which the self-bending parts 2051 a, 2051b turn when the continuous fin body 2130 is continuously moved on the fin line.

Modification of Example 2 A method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the example modification 2 of mode 3-1 will be described, with reference to Fig. 26. The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the modification will be described below. of Example 2 of the present invention focusing on the differences with the method of manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 26, between the steps to be performed in a fin line, in step S2021, the latching elements 2042a, 2042b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged in a part of a region 2030A which forms a flap 2030 in a continuous body 2130 of an elongated fin that moves continuously in the fin line.

In the step S2022, in the part of the aforementioned region 2030A, a pair of self-bending parts 2052a, 2052b are formed which can bend over themselves in an MD direction of the line of flap and in a direction opposite to the MD direction, respectively, in a region that includes a respective latching element 2042a, 2042b.

As shown in Fig. 26, said part of the self-bending parts 2052a, 2052b are superimposed to be formed by: a first cut part (first cutout) 2520 that is formed along the CD direction of the fin line and two notched second portions (second slots) 2050a1, 2050b1 that are formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

The first cut portion (first cut) 2520, as shown in Fig. 26, is provided from a central region leading to an end portion X in the CD direction of the fin line.

In this case, it is preferable that at least a part of the second notched portion (second grooves) 2050a1, 2050b1 is comprised of a detachable line such as a perforated line for separation. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent a circumstance in which the self-bending parts 2052a, 2052b are turned when a continuous fin body 2130 is continuously moved on the fin line.

Modification of Example 3 A method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the example modification 3 of mode 3-1 will be described, with reference to Fig. 27. The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the example modification 3 of the present invention focusing on the differences with the method of manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 27, between the steps to be performed in a fin line, in step S2021, the latching elements 2043a, 2043b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged in a part of a region 2030A which forms a flap 2030 in a continuous body 2130 of an elongated fin that moves continuously in the fin line.

In the step S2022, in the part of the aforementioned region 2030A, a pair of self-bending parts 2053a, 2053b is formed which can bend over itself in an MD direction of the fin line and in an opposite direction to the MD address, respectively, in a region that includes a respective latching element 2043a, 2043b.

As shown in Fig. 27, said part of the self-bending parts 2053a, 2053b are superimposed to be formed by: a first cut part (first cutout) 2530 that is formed along the CD direction of the fin line and two notched second portions (second slots) 2053a1, 2053b1 that are formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

The first cut part (first cut) 2530, as shown in Fig. 27, is provided from a central region leading to an end part X in the CD direction of the fin line.

In this case, it is preferable that at least a part of the second notched portion (second grooves) 2053a1, 2053b1 is comprised of a detachable line such as a perforated line for separation. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent a circumstance in which the self-bending parts 2053a, 2053b turn when a continuous fin body 2130 moves continuously on the fin line.

Modification of Example 4 A method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to example modification 4 of mode 3-1 will be described, with reference to Fig. 28. The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the modification will be described below. of example 4 of the present invention focusing on the differences with the method of manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 28, between the steps to be performed in a fin line, in step S2021, the latching elements 2044a, 2044b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged in a part of a region 2030A that configures a fin 2030 in a continuous body 2130 of an elongate fin that moves continuously in the fin line.

In the step S2022, in the part of the aforementioned region 2030A, a pair of self-bending parts 2054a, 2054b is formed which can bend over itself in an MD direction of the fin line and in an opposite direction to the MD address, respectively, in a region that includes a respective latching element 2044a, 2044b.

As shown in Fig. 28, said part of the self-bending parts 2054a, 2054b are superimposed to be formed by: a first cut part (first cutout) 2540 that is formed along the CD direction of the fin line; and a second cut part (second cutout) 2451 that is formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

The first cut part (first cutout) 2540, as shown in Fig. 28, is provided over a whole central region towards an end part X in the CD direction of the fin line.

Modification of Example 5 A method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to example modification 5 of mode 3-1 will be described, with reference to Fig. 29. The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the modification will be described next. of example 5 of the present invention focusing on the differences with the method of manufacturing absorbent articles according to the mode 3-1 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 29, between the steps to be performed in a fin line, in step S2021, the latching elements 2045a, 2045b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged in a part of a region 2030A which forms a flap 2030 in a continuous body 2130 of an elongate fin which moves continuously in the fin line.

In the step S2022, in the part of the aforementioned region 2030A, a pair of self-bending parts 2055a, 2055b is formed which can bend over itself in an MD direction of the fin line and in an opposite direction to the MD address, respectively, in a region that includes a respective latch element 2045a, 2045b.

As shown in Fig. 29, said part of the self-bending parts 2055a, 2055b are superposed to be formed by: a first cut part (first cutout) 2550 which is formed along the CD direction of the fin line; and a second cut part (second cutout) 2551 that is formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

The first cut part (first cutout) 2550, as shown in Fig. 29, is provided over a whole central region towards an end part Y (the end part Y is opposite the end part X) in the CD direction of the fin line.

Modification of Example 6 A method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the example modification 6 of the mode 3-1 will be described, with reference to Fig. 30. The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to the modification will be described next. of example 6 of the present invention focusing on the differences with the method of manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 30, between the steps to be performed in a fin line, in step S2021, the engaging elements 2046a, 2046b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged in a part of a region 2030A which forms a flap 2030 in a continuous body 2130 of an elongate fin which moves continuously in the fin line.

In step S2022, in the part of the aforementioned region 2030A, a pair of self-bending parts 2056a, 2056b is formed which can bend over itself in an MD direction of the fin line and in an opposite direction to the MD address, respectively, in a region that includes a respective latch element 2046a, 2046b.

As shown in Fig. 30, said part of the self-bending parts 2056a, 2056b are superimposed to be formed by: a first cut part (first cutout) 2560 that is formed along the CD direction of the fin line; and two cut second parts (second cut-outs) 2561a, 2561 b which are formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

The first cut part (first cut) 2560, as shown in Fig. 30, is provided on the whole of the second cut part 2561a to the second cut part 2561 b in the CD direction of the fin line.

Modification of Example 7 A method for making absorbent articles according to the example modification 7 of mode 3-1 will be described, with reference to Fig. 31. The method for making absorbent articles according to the modification will be described below. of Example 7 of the present invention, focusing on the differences with the method of manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-1 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 31, between the steps to be performed on the fin line, in step S2021, four latching elements 2047a, 2047b, 2048a, 2048b that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region are arranged in a part of a region 2030A that forms a fin 2030 in the continuous body 2130 of an elongate fin that is to be continuously moved on a fin line.

In the step S2022 in the part of the aforementioned region 2030A, two self-bending parts 2057b, 2058b are formed which can bend over themselves in an MD direction of the line of fin in the region that includes respectively one of the latching elements 2047b, 2048b, and two folding parts are formed on themselves 2057a, 2058a that can bend on themselves in a direction opposite to the MD direction of the fin line , respectively, in a region that includes one of the latching elements 2047a, 2048a.

As shown in Fig. 31, the fold-over part 2057a is assumed to be formed by: a first notched portion (first slot) 2057a3 formed along the CD direction of the fin line; and two notched second portions (second grooves) 2057a1, 2057a2, formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

Further, it is assumed that the bent part 2058a is formed by: a first notched portion (first slot) 2058a3 that is formed along the CD direction of the fin line; and two notched second portions (second grooves) 2058a1, 2058a2, which are formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

In addition, it is assumed that the bent part 2057b is formed by: a first notched part (first slot) 2057b3 that is formed along the CD direction of the fin line; and two notched second portions (second slots) 2057b1, 2057b2, which are formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

Further, it is assumed that the bent part 2058b is formed by: a first notched portion (first slot) 2058b3 that is formed along the CD direction of the fin line; and two second notched portions (second grooves) 2058b1, 2058b2, which are formed along the MD direction of the fin line.

A configuration can be provided in such a way that four or more latching elements are provided in a portion of a region 2030A that forms a fin 2030 in the continuous fin body 2130 in step S2021 and form two or more parts that bend over each other. same in a region that includes the latching elements in step S2022.

In this case, it is preferable that at least a portion of the first notched portions (first grooves) 2057a3, 2057b3, 2058a3, 2058b3 are comprised of a peel-off line such as a perforated line for separation. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent a circumstance in which the self-bending parts 2057a3, 2057b3, 2058a3, 2058b3 are turned when the continuous fin body 2130 is continuously moved on the fin line.

Modality 3-2 Next, a device will be described by manufacturing absorbent articles according to the embodiment 3-2 of the present invention, with reference to Fig. 32 to Fig. 34. The device for manufacturing absorbent articles is provided with: a latching mechanism arrangement 2310; a folding forming mechanism on itself on the end side 2320; and a linking mechanism 2330.

First, the arrangement mechanism of the hook element 2310 according to the mode 3-2 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 32 is a perspective view showing the hook element arrangement mechanism 2310 according to the mode 3-2 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 32, in a continuous member 2130 of an elongate fin to be continuously moved in a fin line (in the step S2021 described above), the attachment mechanism of the engaging element 2310 has latching elements 2040a, 2040 that can be snapped together in a predetermined region.

The engagement mechanism of the latching element 2310 has: an upper blade roller 2313 that rotates about an axial core 2312; and a lower blade roller 2315 that rotates about an axial core 2314.

In the upper knife roller 2313 a plurality of blades 2313A are provided to be arranged at predetermined intervals in an outer circumference of the upper knife roller 2313 and along the axial core 2312. In the lower knife roller 2315, an orifice is provided of suction 2315A for sucking engagement elements 2040a, 2040b formed by allowing the cutting of the continuous body 2140 of the engaging elements; and a seat blade (not shown) is provided for cutting the continuous cutoff 2140 of the elements engaging between the seat blade and each of the blades 2313A.

On a circumferential face of the lower knife roller 2315, a first zone Z1 is provided to put the continuous fin body 2140 of the engaging elements with a predetermined adhesive force; and a second zone Z2 is provided to put the engaging elements 2040a, 2040b that are formed by ensuring that the continuous body 2140 of the elements engages, in intimate contact with each other, with a given adhesion force that is greater than that in the first zone Z1.

When the continuous body 2140 of the engaging elements passes through the first zone Z1, it is adsorbed on the circumferential face of the lower knife roller 2315 by means of the suction hole 2315A formed in the first zone Z1 while sliding the circumferential face of the roller of lower blade 2315. At this time, the engaging elements 2040a, 2040b are formed by the continuous body 2140 of the engaging elements that are cut between each of the blades 2313A and the seat blade.

When the latching elements 2040a, 2040b pass through the second zone Z2, they come into intimate contact with the peripheral face of the lower knife roller 2315 by means of the suction hole 2315A formed in the second zone Z2, without sliding the circumferential face of the lower blade roller 2315. Subsequently, the engaging elements 2040a, 2040b are brought closer to the continuous body 2130 by means of the rotation of the lower blade roller 2315, and are joined on the continuous body 2130.

Next, the forming mechanism of the self-bending part 2320 according to the mode 3-2 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 33 is a perspective view showing the forming mechanism of the self-bending part 2320 according to the embodiment 3-2 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 33, in a part of a region forming a fin 2320 in the continuous fin body 2130, the forming mechanism of the folding part 2320 forms a pair of folding parts on themselves 2050a, 2050b which can bend on themselves in an MD direction of a fin line and in a direction opposite to the MD direction.

The forming mechanism of the self-bending part 2320 has: a cutting roller 2321 that rotates around a supporting arrow (not shown); and a clamping roller 2322 for clamping the continuous fin body 2130 between the clamping roller and the cutting roller 2321.

A circumferential speed (V7) of the cutting roller 2321 is substantially equal to a transfer speed (V4) of the continuous fin body 2130. A folding processing knife on itself 2321 A to form the parts that are folded on themselves 2050a, 2050b is formed on the cutting roller 2321. The processing blade that bends over itself same 2321A corresponds to the profile of the parts that bend over themselves 2050a, 2050b.

Next, the linking mechanism 2330 according to the mode 3-2 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 34 is a perspective view showing the linking mechanism 2330 according to the mode 3-2 of the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 34, the linking mechanism 2330 joins the continuous fin body 2130 and the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element together so that each of the regions forms a fin 2030 corresponding to each of the regions that form an absorbent article in the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element.

In the lines of the main body (step S2033 mentioned above), the linking mechanism 2330 joins the continuous fin body 2130 and the continuous body 2120a rear waist line element together so that the MD direction of the fin line corresponds to the MD address of the main body line. The linking mechanism 2330 has a pair of rollers 2331, 2332. A circumferential speed (V8) of said pair of rollers 2331, 2332 is substantially equal to a transfer speed (V4) of the continuous fin body 2130.

The roller 2331 guides the continuous body 2130 of a flap to be translated, on the continuous body 2120a of the rear belt line element. On the other hand, the roller 2332 is opposite the roller 2331 with the continuous body 2120a of the rear waist line element and the continuous fin body 2130 being sandwiched therebetween. A pair of rollers 2331, 2332 tightly attached to the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element and the continuous fin body 2130 therebetween. In this way, the linking mechanism 2330 joins the continuous body 2120a of the rear waistline element and the wing 2030 with each other.

Another Third Modality For example, the sequential order described in the method for the manufacture of absorbent articles is not limiting in particular, it is sufficient if the absorbent articles can be manufactured, and that the sequential order can be appropriately selected is a matter according to the objective.

Although the present invention has thus been described in detail by the use of the above-described embodiments, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the specification. The present invention can be realized with modified and altered aspects without deviating from the objective and scope of the present invention defined by the claims. Therefore, the description of the present specification is intended for an illustrative explanation, and has no limiting meaning for the present invention.

The full contents of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-094065 (filed on March 31, 2008) and the Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-074778 (filed on March 25, 2009) are incorporated in the present specification for reference.

Industrial Application As described above, with a method of manufacturing absorbent articles according to the present invention, a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles can be provided which is capable of preventing the occurrence of a failure caused by the fact that the positions of the side flaps are not coincident with each other in the MD direction of the main body line, without the need to employ a forward control.

Furthermore, with the absorbent articles according to the present invention, a manufacturing method that is able to achieve a stable transfer state and restrict the consumption of material at the moment of forming a side flap can be provided, without the need to use a complicated stage.

In addition, with the absorbent articles according to the present invention, a method for the manufacture of absorbent articles can be provided, which is capable of forming a side flap that a user can unfold easily, while achieving a continuous transfer of a continuous body of fin (part of continuous band) in a fin line without the need to use an advanced control.

Claims

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS 1 - . 1 - A method for the manufacture of absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent main body that is interposed between the top sheet and the backsheet, said method comprises : a step of arranging the hooking element, in a continuous body of an elongate fin to be moved continuously in a fin line, arranging the hooking elements that can be hooked together in a predetermined region, on both sides of the line central taken along a direction of transfer of the fin line; a fin forming step, in the fin line, which forms a fin by cutting the continuous body of the fin line along a direction crossing the direction of fin line transfer; and a fin disposing step, in a continuous body of an elongate absorbent article to be moved continuously in a main body line, arranging the fin in a predetermined range such that a center line is taken along a direction of transfer of the main body line, where in the fin line, bilateral end faces of the continuous body of the fin bend over themselves towards a side of the centerline taken along the direction of the fin line transfer. 2 - . 2 - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 1, further characterized in that: in the step of arranging the hooking element, the hooking elements are arranged on the bilateral end sides of the continuous body of the fin; and the bilateral end sides of the continuous body of the fin are folded on themselves towards the side of the center line. 3. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 2, further characterized in that the bilateral end sides of the continuous body of the fin are folded on themselves towards the side of the center line; and the engaging elements disposed on the bilateral end sides are retained in a manner engaged in the continuous body of the fin. 4. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 1, further characterized in that: in the step of arranging the hooking element, in the continuous body of the fin, the hooking elements are arranged on both sides of a region next to the center line taken along the direction of the fin line transfer; and a detachable line is formed which allows the continuous body of the fin to be divided into two sections along the center line. 5. - The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to claim 1, further characterized in that: the sides bilateral ends of the continuous body of the fin bend over themselves a plurality of times. 6. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 1, further characterized in that in the stage of fin provision, the fin is attached to the continuous body of the absorbent article. 7. - A device for the manufacture of absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent main body interposed between the top sheet and the back sheet, said device comprising: a mechanism of hooking element arrangement, in a continuous body of an elongate fin to be continuously moved in a fin line, arranging the latching elements that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region, on both sides of a central line taken as length of a fin line transfer direction; a bending mechanism on itself from the end side for bending on itself the bilateral end sides of the continuous fin body to one side of the center line along the direction of transfer of the fin line; and a fin formation formation cutting mechanism by cutting the continuous fin body along a direction crossing the direction of fin line transfer and in a continuous body of an elongated absorbent article, arranging the fin to a predetermined interval so that the center line is taken along a transfer direction of a main body line. 8. - A method for manufacturing absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a front waist line element, a rear waist line element, and a crotch element connecting the front waist line element and the line element of rear waist between each other, said method comprises: a step of arranging the hooking element, in a continuous body of an elongate fin to be continuously moved in a fin line, arranging the hooking elements that can be hooked together in a region predetermined, on both sides of a central line taken along a direction of transfer of the fin line; a fin forming step, on the fin line, which forms a fin by cutting the continuous fin body along the crossing direction of the fin line transfer direction; a fin disposing step of a main body line, arranging the fin in a continuous body of the front waist line element or the rear waist line element so that the center line is orthogonal to a direction of movement of the main body line, wherein at the fin line, bilateral end faces of the continuous fin body fold over towards the side of the center line. 9. - The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to claim 8, further characterized in that it comprises a step of cutting the waist line element, in the main body line, by adjusting a continuous body of the front waist line element and a continuous body of the rear waist line element to a predetermined length interval along an address crossing a transfer direction of the main body line, wherein: a width in a crossing direction of the centerline in the fin is shorter than the predetermined length interval. 10. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 8, further characterized in that: in the step of arranging the hooking element, the hooking elements are arranged on lateral end sides of the continuous body of the fin; and the bilateral end sides of the continuous fin body are folded on themselves towards the side of the center line. 1. The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 10, further characterized in that: the bilateral end sides of the continuous body of the fin are folded on themselves towards the side of the center line; and the engaging elements disposed on the bilateral end sides are retained in a manner engaged in the continuous body of the fin. 12. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 10, further characterized in that it comprises a step of forming a cut part in a predetermined profile in a part of the bilateral end faces. 13. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 8, further characterized in that in the step of arranging the hooking element, in the continuous body of the fin, the hooking elements are arranged on both sides of a nearby region of a central line taken along the direction of transfer of the fin line; and a detachable line is formed which allows the continuous body of the fin to be divided into two sections along the center line. 14. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 13, further characterized in that it comprises a step of forming a part cut in a predetermined profile in a part of the proximal region. 15. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 1, further characterized in that: in the stage of fin layout, the fin is attached to the continuous body of the front waist line element or the waist line element later. 16. The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to claim 8, further characterized in that it comprises a crotch element disposition step for arranging the crotch element so as to be of another in the direction of transfer of the main body line , between a continuous body of the front waist line element that is formed with an elongated profile and a continuous body of the rear waist line element that is formed with a profile elongated, a respective one of which will be continuously moved in the main body line. 17. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 8, further characterized in that: in the fin disposal step, the fin is arranged to cover end portions of the crotch element. 18. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 9, further characterized in that: in the step of cutting the belt line element, the continuous body of the front waist line element and the continuous body of the line element of back waist are cut such that a length of the front waist line element in a direction across the width of the absorbent article is equal to a length of the rear waist line element in the widthwise direction of the absorbent article. 19. - A device for the manufacture of absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a front waist line element, a rear waist line element, and a crotch element connecting the front waist line element and the line element of rear waist with each other, said device comprises: a latching element arrangement mechanism configured to arrange the latching elements that can be engaged with each other in a predetermined region, on either side of a central line taken along a direction of transfer of the fin line, in a continuous body of an elongate fin to be continuously moved on a fin line; a self-bending mechanism on the end side configured to bend bilateral end faces of the continuous fin body to one side of the center line; and a cutting arrangement mechanism configured to form the fin by cutting the continuous body of the fin along a direction crossing the direction of transfer of the fin line and arranging the fin in a continuous body of the line element. of front waist or the rear waist line element so that the center line is orthogonal to a direction of movement of the main body line. 20. - A method for manufacturing absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a front waist line element, a rear waist line element, and a crotch element connecting the front waist line element and the line element of rear waist with each other, said method comprises: a step of forming a part that bends on itself, in a part of a region that forms a fin in a continuous body of an elongate fin to be continuously moved in a line of fin, forming a pair of folding parts on themselves that can bend over themselves in a direction of transfer of the fin line and in a direction opposite to the direction of movement, and have latching elements that can be hooked together in a predetermined region, in a respective pair of said pair of parts that bend over themselves; and a joining stage for joining a continuous body of the fin and a continuous body of the front waist line element or a continuous body of the rear waist line element so that one of the respective regions configured by said fin corresponds to a respective region forming said article absorbent of the front waist line element or the rear waist line element. twenty-one - . 21 - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 20, further characterized in that: in the step of forming the part that bends over itself, said pair of parts that bend over themselves are formed by less by one of a notched first part and a first cut part formed along a direction of crossing of the direction of transfer of the fin line and at least by a second notched part and a second cut part formed along of the transfer direction of the fin line. 22. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 20, further characterized in that: in the joining stage, one of the respective latching elements that is arranged in a respective part of said pair of parts that are bent over They are retained in a latched manner in the continuous body of the front waist line element or the rear waist line element. 23. - The method for the manufacture of absorbent articles according to claim 20, further characterized in that it comprises a step of arranging the crotch element for disposing the crotch element to be separated from another in a direction of movement of the main body line, between a continuous body of elongated front waist line element and a continuous body of elongated posterior waist line to be continuously moved in an main body line. 24. - The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to claim 20, further characterized in that: in the joining stage, the continuous body of the fin and the continuous body of the front waist line element or the waist line element later join together. 25. - The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to claim 20, further characterized in that: in the joining cap, the continuous body of the fin and the continuous body of the front waist line element or the waist line element The backs are joined together so that one of the respective fins covers end portions of an absorbent main body placed in the crotch element. 26. - The method for manufacturing absorbent articles according to claim 20, further characterized in that it comprises a step of cutting the waist line element to cut the continuous body of the front waist line element and the continuous body of the line element of back waist so that a length of the front waist line element in a direction across the width of the article absorbent is equal to a length of the rear waist line element in a widthwise direction of the absorbent article. 27. - A device for the manufacture of absorbent articles, respective absorbent articles provided with a front waist line element, a rear waist line element, and a crotch element that connects the front waist line element with the line element of rear waist between each other, said device comprises: a mechanism for arranging hook elements configured to arrange hooking elements that can be hooked together in a predetermined region, in a continuous body of an elongate fin to be continuously moved in a line of fin; a self-folding part forming mechanism configured to form a pair of self-bending parts that can bend over themselves in a direction of movement and an opposite direction to the direction of fin line movement in a part of a region that forms a fin in a continuous fin body; and a connecting mechanism configured to join a continuous body of the fin and a continuous body of the front waist line element or a continuous body of the rear waist line element so that a respective region forming said fin corresponds to a region respective configuration of said absorbent article of the front waist line element or the rear waist line element.